Name: Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 1 h
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 box (13.25 oz) chocolate cake mix; ⅓ cup neutral oil (vegetable, avocado, canola, etc.); 1 cup milk or water; 4 large eggs; ¼ cup unsalted butter (softened); 1 cup powdered sugar; 1½ tbsp cocoa powder; ½ tsp vanilla extract; Pinch of salt; 1 tsp milk (add more if needed); 12 oz dark cocoa candy melts; White nonpareils or sprinkles

why make this recipe

Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops are a fun and delicious treat that you can easily make at home. They allow you to enjoy that rich chocolate flavor and creamy texture without having to go to your local café. Plus, making these cake pops is a great way to impress friends and family at parties or gatherings.

🧰 Kitchen tools commonly used in similar recipes

Before starting, many home cooks like to have these basic tools ready:

how to make Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

Ingredients:

1 box (13.25 oz) chocolate cake mix
⅓ cup neutral oil (vegetable, avocado, canola, etc.)
1 cup milk or water
4 large eggs
¼ cup unsalted butter (softened)
1 cup powdered sugar
1½ tbsp cocoa powder
½ tsp vanilla extract
Pinch of salt
1 tsp milk (add more if needed)
12 oz dark cocoa candy melts
White nonpareils or sprinkles

Directions:

Preheat your oven to 325-350℉ (162-175℃). Check your cake box for the exact temperature based on your pan size.
In a large bowl, mix all the cake ingredients together thoroughly. Pour the batter into a greased or lined baking pan.
Bake in the oven and check for doneness 2-4 minutes before the suggested time by inserting a toothpick into the center of the cake. If it comes out clean, it’s ready. Be careful not to overbake.
When the cake is done, transfer it to a large stand mixing bowl while it’s still hot. Use a paddle attachment to crumble the cake on low speed until there are no large pieces left. Alternatively, you can crumble it using a handheld mixer or by hand once it cools slightly.
In a small bowl, combine all the buttercream ingredients, making sure to sift in the powdered sugar and cocoa powder. Mix well until it’s fairly smooth. Small lumps in the buttercream are okay.
Add the buttercream mixture to the crumbled cake and mix until everything is combined well.
Roll the cake mix into balls about 1¼ inches in diameter (or around 30g each). Place these cake pops in the freezer for 15 minutes. After that, let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes while you melt your candy melts.
Melt a small amount of candy melts in the microwave, following the package directions. Heat and stir in 15-30 second increments until the candy melts are thin and smooth.
Dip the tip of a lollipop stick into the melted candy coating, then gently insert the dipped tip into each cake ball halfway. Once done, return them to the freezer for another 15 minutes.
Take the cake pops out of the freezer and let them sit at room temperature for 10 minutes. Melt the remaining candy melts to your desired consistency.
Dip each cake pop into the melted candy, ensuring it is fully coated up to the stick. This helps the cake pop stay attached.
Hold the stick and gently tap the cake pop to remove any excess candy melt, aiming for an even coat. Avoid dunking it again, as too much weight can make the cake pop fall off the stick.
Quickly decorate with sprinkles or nonpareils before the coating sets. Use a styrofoam block to keep your cake pops upright while they dry. Repeat this step until all your cake pops are done.

how to serve Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

Cake pops are perfect for a variety of occasions. You can serve them at birthday parties, coffee dates, or just as a sweet snack. They look cute displayed in a jar or on a plate. Enjoy them alongside your favorite beverage for a special treat!

how to store Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

Once your cake pops are fully set, you can store them in an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to a week. If you prefer, you can also freeze them. Just make sure to wrap them well in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag. They will last for 1-2 months in the freezer.

tips to make Starbucks Copycat Chocolate Cake Pops

Make sure the cake is fully cooled before crumbling it.
If the dough is too dry, add a bit more milk to the mixture.
Use a quality chocolate cake mix for the best flavor.
Let your melted candy coating cool slightly before dipping the cake pops to avoid melting them.

variation

You can change the flavor of cake pops by using different cake mixes, like vanilla or red velvet. For a fun twist, try adding flavored extracts like peppermint or almond to your buttercream mix or use colored candy melts for a festive look!

FAQs

Q: Can I use a homemade cake recipe instead of a box mix?
A: Yes, you can use homemade cake as long as it is baked, cooled, and crumbled properly.

Q: How do I prevent my cake pops from falling off the stick?
A: Make sure to dip the lollipop stick into the melted candy coating before inserting it into the cake ball. This helps secure the stick to the cake pop.

Q: Can I make these in advance?
A: Yes, you can make cake pops a day or two ahead of when you plan to serve them. Store them in the fridge or freeze them, as mentioned above.